If you’ve been to the museum or walked by the main entrance lately, you may have noticed some changes to the outdoor art.
We are currently de-installing the Dzunuk’wa (Wild Woman of the Woods) figures and the Single Fin whale—replicas carved by Bill Holm, curator emeritus of Northwest Coast Indian art—in front of the current Burke Museum’s main entrance. The totem pole carved by Wayne F. Hewson, Toni Hewson, and David R. Boxley located on the Burke’s patio is being removed as well.
These objects are being removed now to prepare for the move into the new Burke Museum (opening fall 2019) and demolition of the old Burke building (spring 2019).
They have been on display for many years, and it’s important to let them “rest” and come out of the elements for their long-term preservation. The objects will be fumigated to remove any potential pests and then permanently moved to the Burke’s oversized collections storage area.
The large totem poles located by the south end of the current Burke’s roundabout and the Pluma sculpture on the front lawn will stay in their current location.
Newly-commissioned pieces are being made for the New Burke, including welcome figures and outdoor art. We’re excited to unveil those to the community in the next year!
Stay tuned to the Burke Blog for an interview with Bill Holm about the Single Fin whale.
In the meantime, view recent New Burke move updates at newburke.org/updates.
